Netflix Coming to Set Top Cable Boxes, Could Bring in 5 Million New Subscribers

In a move that could potentially bring in as many as 5 million new subscribers, Comcast has announced that their Xfinity X1 devices will have Netflix compatibility as soon as next week.

What does this mean? Comcast subscribers who are not already Netflix members can sign up for the streaming service directly through their cable box’s video on demand section and start a brand net Netflix subscription.

After a one month free trial, customers will see the standard Netflix rate ($9.99 at the moment) added to their bill. Customers who are already Netflix members can just sign in with their normal username and password and start watching through their cable box.

The move means no more juggling remotes or changing inputs for Comcast customers who also watch Netflix. And in television, ease of use is huge. Comcast is making it incredibly easy to watch Netflix, and they’re going to see results.

Comcast has around 22 million subscribers, and around half of those either already are, or soon will be using the Xfinity X1 platform. If around 40% of those subscribers start a new Netflix membership (which analysis by tech experts Cowen & Co. says is likely), that’s around 5 million new Netflix members.

Artie Beaty is a freelance writer (and unabashed Chicago Cubs fan) from Charlotte, NC. He has almost 15 years experience freelancing. Email him at artiebeaty@streamingobserver.com.Disclosure: Streaming Observer is supported by readers. Articles may contain referral links. For more information, see the disclosure at the bottom of the page.